The Awfulness of Maxis-created Lots

I tend to get rid of the gym in Willow Creek. It doesn't feel very gym-like and its design is just really awkward. Also, depending on the atmosphere of a playthrough, I'll also get rid of the Blue Velvet for a build of my own that has a more grungy, industrial vibe to it. I don't have too many qualms gameplay wise or design wise with the Windenburg gym, though. The locker room on the basement level makes a cool transition area from the front door to the gym proper...though, I can see how it can be annoying for players who just want their sims to get to working out already.

I usually only use the pre-built homes as temp housing (with a few exceptions), and either abandon or remodel them as needed...or, I'll just use them as a holding place for NPC's I want to have more interaction with. With pre-built venues, I'll destroy the ones I find ugly, boring, or repetitive. After all, I've got to put my Goth/Vampire bar somewhere... ;)